Whitnash musician returns to Warwick to raise funds for cause close to his heart
A musician from Whitnash, who created an album to help raise money for The Myton Hospices which cared for his son during his final days, will be holding a free concert as part of the Warwick Folk Festival.
Singer-songwriter Bill Bates will be performing at the Unitarian Chapel at 31 High Street on Saturday July 25 from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.
Earlier this year, Bill launched his album Madhouse, with every penny raised going directly to the hospice in gratitude for the care and support his family received when his son Matthew became seriously ill.
Matthew Bates, who was a journalist and worked for titles including the Leamington Observer and Stratford Herald, died in 2016 aged 27 after a two-year battle with cancer.
He was also a musician and prior to his death he penned a collection of songs about his journey and his loved ones for his album Fightback.
The concert, being held during the popular folk festival, which returns to the town from July 23 to 26, will feature songs from Madhouse.
It has also been a poignant time for Bill and his wife Louise, as they recently visited The Myton Hospice for the first time since their son died there almost ten years ago.
During the visit, Bill also presented the charity with a cheque for £1,415.62, which has been raised through the album sales.
Bill said: “Returning to Myton brought back so many memories, but it also reminded us of the extraordinary care and compassion the staff showed our family during the most difficult time of our lives.
“Raising money through music feels like a small way of saying thank you."
Every CD of Madhouse sold will continue to go towards The Myton Hospice, although Bill stresses there is no obligation for concert-goers to make a purchase.
He said: “I simply want people to come along, enjoy an afternoon of live music and, if they leave with a smile, that's enough for me."
Madhouse is available to buy as a physical CD or as a digital download.
To make a donation or to purchase the album, go to www.justgiving.com/page/bill-bates-cd or go to: billbates.bandcamp.com/album/madhouse